The Allstate Blog » Frank Rivera, ADThttp://blog.allstate.com
Expert tips and fun facts on protecting your car, home, motorcycle or RV from Allstate Auto InsuranceTue, 03 Mar 2015 17:51:28 +0000en-UShourly1http://wordpress.org/?v=4.1.1Woof! 10 Pet Safety Tips for the Holidayshttp://blog.allstate.com/woof-10-pet-safety-tips-for-the-holidays/
http://blog.allstate.com/woof-10-pet-safety-tips-for-the-holidays/#commentsWed, 11 Dec 2013 12:04:58 +0000http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2011/12/02/woof-10-pet-safety-tips-for-the-holidaysThe holidays stir up excitement and anticipation for loads of activities, meals and decorations. But, if you’re a pet owner, you should also consider how festive plants, lighting and other changes around the household might impact the safety of your pets. So, how exactly can a pet owner best prepare for the holidays? There are […]

]]>The holidays stir up excitement and anticipation for loads of activities, meals and decorations. But, if you’re a pet owner, you should also consider how festive plants, lighting and other changes around the household might impact the safety of your pets.

So, how exactly can a pet owner best prepare for the holidays? There are 10 easy to follow, common-sense tips you can incorporate into your holiday plans to ensure your pets stay safe:

1. Secure, hide or cover electrical cords and electronics.

Holiday lights and decorations usually lead to many new cords being scattered around the house. Be sure all cords are taped down or completely out of reach for your pets as they can trip on them, chew them up, or even experience an electric shock.

2. Keep holiday foods out of a pet’s reach.

The holidays always inspire delicious food, drinks and desserts. Remember, dogs can’t eat chocolate so make sure this is out of reach. Also, animals that ingest alcoholic beverages can experience nausea or upset stomach.

3. Keep your pet’s daily routine as consistent as possible.

The holidays are filled with tons of parties and activities that often change up our daily routines. Try to keep your pet on their regular daily routine because they don’t adapt to change very well.

4. Keep your pets out of rooms with a Christmas tree.

Although this may be difficult, the fact is that decorated trees pose too many dangers. Cats and dogs enjoy playing with dangling decorations and could knock over a tree or a glass ornament. Dogs may use a tree the same way they would outside, as an area to relieve themselves. If a pet accidentally eats a hook, ornament or tinsel, they could experience intestinal problems. Animals may also drink out of the water bowl which the tree sits in, so avoid adding chemicals to make the tree last longer.

5. Avoid long strings, lights or décor in areas accessible to pets.

Pets always want to play and could easily mistake a string of lights as a toy. Unfortunately, this could lead to choking or other accidents.

6. Carefully watch candles.

Lighting scented candles are a great way to get in the holiday spirit. However, be sure to keep all flames and fires away from pets. They may get curious around a lit flame, which could lead to accidentally knocking the candle over.

7. Be careful with holiday plants.

There are many holiday plants that are dangerous for your pets. Common items such as mistletoe, holly, poinsettias and lilies can be poisonous to your dog or cat. Certain plants affect different animals and breeds in unique ways. Be sure to research how your specific pet(s) is affected by different plant species.

8. Update vaccinations and ID tags.

Make sure ID tags include your current address and contact information. This should be done year-round, but is important during the holidays as we usually have many guests in our home. Guests aren’t always familiar with the day-to-day pet rules and could present opportunities where your pet could escape the house.

9. Create a safe haven for your pets.

Many pets have an area or room where they feel safe. This is especially important for your pet’s security during the holidays when there are many strangers around, as well as lots of loud noises (i.e. firecrackers on New Years). Pets need an area where they can retreat to if they are scared or overwhelmed.

10. Keep a list of emergency phone numbers for your pet.

You should always have the contact information for your veterinarian, a 24-hour pet hospital, and the Animal Poison Control Center easily accessible.

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/woof-10-pet-safety-tips-for-the-holidays/feed/07 College Winter Break Safety Tipshttp://blog.allstate.com/college-winter-break-safety-tips/
http://blog.allstate.com/college-winter-break-safety-tips/#commentsFri, 29 Nov 2013 12:45:37 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=3990Heading home for winter break becomes something of a ritual for many college kids. Students finish their exams, say goodbye to their friends for a few weeks, and prepare for a return to doing chores, coming home before their parents’ curfew, and sleeping in. But, all too often, students head home without realizing the best […]

]]>Heading home for winter break becomes something of a ritual for many college kids. Students finish their exams, say goodbye to their friends for a few weeks, and prepare for a return to doing chores, coming home before their parents’ curfew, and sleeping in.

But, all too often, students head home without realizing the best way to protect the things they’re leaving behind. When locking the doors and closing the blinds aren’t enough, here is a list of college winter break safety tips to help your son or daughter leave any worries about their apartment behind:

Create the illusion that someone is home

A favorite of homeowners, this is a tactic that works for apartment dwellers, as well. Connect lights, the radio and even the TV to an automatic timer that can be used to vary the on/off pattern of interior lights when your child is away.

Recruit a trusted neighbor

If your son or daughter is going home for an extended period of time, a friend or neighbor can help pick up the mail, park a car in the driveway or even shovel some snow—all creating the appearance that someone is home.

Make the last person to leave do a double-check

If your son or daughter lives with other students, a good security tip is to discuss who will be leaving last, and then make sure that person is willing and able to double-check all windows and doors, turn on any automatic timers and put away or cover up any common-area valuables, such as gaming systems or big-screen TVs.

Keep utilities in mind

In cold-weather areas, pipes can freeze, crack and cause water damage. If they don’t have a flood alarm, talk with your college students about ways they can safeguard their home or apartment by keeping the heat inside their temporarily unoccupied apartment to at least 58 degrees. Also, windows should be completely closed; a one-inch opening near a pipe can be enough to cause it to freeze and break.

Care for a car that’s left behind

Students who are carpooling home and leaving their vehicle back at school for winter break should park in a well-lit area or secure location and remove all valuables (GPS, small electronics, etc.) from the car. Talk to them about electing a friend who is staying behind at school to start the car, so that it’s not sitting idle.

Keep good records

Students should consider taking small items, such as personal safes, jewelry boxes, electronics and laptops, home with them during college winter break. If they must leave items of value behind, recording the serial numbers, brand names and date and price of purchases, and taking a few pictures of their valuables will help authorities identify their property in the event of a theft or a natural disaster.

Don’t go back with family heirlooms

Many students like to come back to school after winter break with a memento or special reminder from their homes. All too often, these reminders have a certain priceless value attached to them. Explain to your children that they shouldn’t bring anything back to school that they can’t afford to live without.

Of course, not everyone goes home for college winter break. If your son or daughter is enrolling in a winter session or chooses to stay on campus, be sure they do so with extra precaution. Campus crowds and campus security may be a little light during this time, so added awareness is imperative. [Originally published 12/20/12]

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/college-winter-break-safety-tips/feed/03 Dorm Safety Tips Every College Student Should Knowhttp://blog.allstate.com/3-must-know-dorm-room-security-and-fire-safety-tips/
http://blog.allstate.com/3-must-know-dorm-room-security-and-fire-safety-tips/#commentsTue, 30 Jul 2013 17:59:09 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=3083Safety in the dorm room may not be the first thought on a new college student’s mind, but as a parent it should be your main concern. While dormitories are a great place to meet new friends and socialize, they can also be dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken. With a solid security plan […]

]]>Safety in the dorm room may not be the first thought on a new college student’s mind, but as a parent it should be your main concern. While dormitories are a great place to meet new friends and socialize, they can also be dangerous if the proper precautions aren’t taken. With a solid security plan and some safeguards in place, you can prepare your child to stay safe in their home away from home.

Have a Personal Security Plan

Every college has campus security and you should make sure your child knows exactly how to get in touch with them. Most schools offer orientation and guided tours of the campus. With a personal security plan in mind, make this a perfect opportunity to discover the fastest routes to the security office and to make sure you get the correct emergency numbers to dial.

Once your child knows their schedule, it’s very important that they share that information with you and someone they really trust as part of the security plan. Planning different walking routes between classes and their dorm is a great way to protect your child from being followed.

Security awareness is crucial. Dorm rooms have a lot of visitor traffic. Explain to your child that if they feel unsafe or see anything suspicious happening, it is better for them to contact campus security immediately rather than let the issue go on.

Dorm Room Security Products

Freshmen don’t always have the luxury of knowing who they will be rooming with. In order to protect against this uncertainty you may need some dorm room security products such as room safes, insurance, and laptop locks to keep your things safe. Room safes can be as inconspicuous as a book or can blend in to a drawer without notice. Locking up jewelry, checkbooks, and other valuables when not around can deter would-be snatch and grab thieves.

If your student is a musician or has expensive jewelry or sporting equipment, insurance can help recover the value of stolen or destroyed items and costs much less than replacing them yourself.

Valuables that don’t fit in a safe or are uninsurable could benefit from something as simple as labeling. Labeled items help solve ownership disputes and act as a simple but effective theft deterrent.

Fire Safety

Accidents in crowded dorms can often lead to fire mishaps. Smoke alarms should be working and checked regularly. Hairdryers, curling irons and straighteners should be unplugged when not in use and should never be left unattended. In some older buildings, replacing high wattage light bulbs with energy efficient or lower wattage light bulbs can prevent overheating and fire. Candles can be the most dangerous item in a dorm room. A lot of colleges do not allow the use of candles in dorm rooms but for those that do, watch and wait for an extra second or two to ensure that the blown out candle doesn’t reignite. Extinguish all flames when not in the room or before going to bed. Some simple, common-sense fire safety precautions can keep everyone safe from common accidents.

We can never be 100 percent certain that our kids will be safe in the dorm room, but with proper planning and the right conversations, we can ensure they will have the tools for basic safety when away at school.

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/3-must-know-dorm-room-security-and-fire-safety-tips/feed/3Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips for Chimney and Furnace Seasonhttp://blog.allstate.com/chimney-carbon-monoxide-safety/
http://blog.allstate.com/chimney-carbon-monoxide-safety/#commentsThu, 31 Jan 2013 12:16:46 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=4182Winter is here. And while you’ve probably fired up the furnace plenty, and stocked up on firewood, have you studied up on carbon monoxide safety? A common output of malfunctioning or improperly used appliances, carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that’s nicknamed the “silent killer” because you can’t see it, smell it or taste it. […]

]]>Winter is here. And while you’ve probably fired up the furnace plenty, and stocked up on firewood, have you studied up on carbon monoxide safety?

A common output of malfunctioning or improperly used appliances, carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas that’s nicknamed the “silent killer” because you can’t see it, smell it or taste it. Furnaces, stoves, ovens, water heaters and blocked chimney vents can all be potential sources of carbon monoxide, or CO.

Furnace and Chimney Safety Precautions

Have fuel-burning heating equipment and chimneys inspected annually by a licensed professional. This includes your furnace, water heater, wood stove and any portable heaters.

Make sure the damper is opened and clear of debris before using a fireplace.

Never use your oven or stove to heat your home.

When purchasing new appliances, look for products that have been tested and are labeled by a recognized testing laboratory.

Make sure all fuel-burning equipment is vented to the outside and is kept clear and unblocked.

Damaged or discolored bricks at the top of your chimney, moisture around the windows and walls near a furnace, and excessive rust on vent pipes or the outside of appliances can all be signs of a potential CO problem. Call in a professional if you spot these signs.

CO Alarm Testing and Replacement

Run a test on your CO alarms at least once a month, and replace them if they aren’t responding correctly. Sensors in carbon monoxide alarms have a limited life.

A CO alarm isn’t a substitute for a smoke alarm, and vice-versa. You should familiarize yourself with the different sounds each alarm makes.

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/chimney-carbon-monoxide-safety/feed/2Top 3 Turkey Frying Safety Tipshttp://blog.allstate.com/turkey-frying-safety-tips/
http://blog.allstate.com/turkey-frying-safety-tips/#commentsFri, 16 Nov 2012 13:00:20 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=3630Turkey frying is an exceptional way to lock in the delicious flavor and juices of a Thanksgiving bird while offering a crisp and tasty alternative to the traditionally roasted main dish. Unfortunately, turkey frying can become very dangerous if it’s done without general fire safety knowledge. According to the National Fire Protection Association’s 2012 Home Fires […]

]]>Turkey frying is an exceptional way to lock in the delicious flavor and juices of a Thanksgiving bird while offering a crisp and tasty alternative to the traditionally roasted main dish.

Unfortunately, turkey frying can become very dangerous if it’s done without general fire safety knowledge. According to the National Fire Protection Association’s 2012 Home Fires Involving Cooking Equipment report, Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.

Thankfully, there are simple fire safety precautions you can take in order to make sure your turkey frying experience is of the tasty kind.

1. Dry Before You Fry

A frozen turkey should never be placed directly into hot oil. Experts suggest thawing your turkey for 24 to 48 hours prior to placing in a fryer; always hand-dry the turkey to make sure no moisture remains. (Water can cause the oil to bubble up and spill over.) Getting the proper turkey size for the fryer is also important. Read your instruction manual carefully, and never get a turkey that is larger than the recommended size.

2. High-Quality Oil Can Help Prevent Fires

Oil quality matters. When cooking, you’ll want to use good-quality oil that has a high smoke point, such as peanut or safflower oil. When it comes to fire safety, smoke point is important because, when frying at temperatures around 350°F, you want to make sure the oil isn’t easily ignitable, which could potentially start a serious fire. Make sure that, when filling the fryer, you leave plenty of room at the top to prevent accidental spills and overfilling. Remember that oil inside the fryer can remain hot for hours after being used, so make sure kids or pets do not play close to or go near the fryer.

3. Always Cook Outside

When deep-frying a turkey, it’s important to keep the fryer under constant supervision to prevent fires. Always cook outside, making sure to stay off any wooden decks or structures (and a safe distance away from them), as spilled hot oil can result in a fire.

Also, keep the fryer away from low-hanging branches or yard décor to help ensure that nothing can accidentally be set aflame. Never use water to extinguish a grease fire, and always keep an all-purpose fire extinguisher on hand.

Thanksgiving is a time for family, parades, football and, of course, a big feast. By following these basic turkey deep-frying safety tips, you can help make sure you and your family will enjoy the holiday with a delicious meal—safely.

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/turkey-frying-safety-tips/feed/2Keep Home Security in Mind When Hiring a Contractorhttp://blog.allstate.com/keep-home-security-in-mind-when-hiring-a-contractor/
http://blog.allstate.com/keep-home-security-in-mind-when-hiring-a-contractor/#commentsWed, 17 Oct 2012 15:31:53 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=3404Homeowners know all too well that appliances break, pipes leak, and sometimes home upgrades and repairs are a necessity. While we all wish we had a neighbor like Bob Vila, the reality is sometimes we need to hire the help of a home contractor to do the work for us. But giving a stranger free […]

]]>Homeowners know all too well that appliances break, pipes leak, and sometimes home upgrades and repairs are a necessity.

While we all wish we had a neighbor like Bob Vila, the reality is sometimes we need to hire the help of a home contractor to do the work for us.

But giving a stranger free access to your home can sometimes be a cause for concern. With the proper preparations and some basic home security tips, though, hiring a reputable home improvement contractor doesn’t have to be an intimidating task.

Know what to look for in a home contractor

Asking around for a contractor is easier now, thanks in part to the Better Business Bureau and Angie’s List, which are excellent online resources for checking contractors’ customer service ratings.

When the contractor arrives, he should be in full uniform, in a marked van or truck, and able to provide proper identification with all the necessary permits and insurance documents.

Quality assurance is important when having any work done. Ask ahead of time for some pictures of recently completed work or for a list of places in the area where they have done business. This will help give you a better idea of the quality of work you can expect from this contractor.

Contractors work hand in hand with suppliers and subcontractors. It’s a good idea to ask the contractor how he vets the suppliers and subcontractors he works with. It can also be helpful speak to those suppliers and subcontractors, as well. Make sure they are being paid and are comfortable working with the contractor.

Preparation can make the experience smoother

Because a contractor frequently needs to go in and out of the house, you should direct the contractor to use a specific entrance, and explain what rooms are off limits.

If you know the home repair contractor will be working in one room specifically, make sure it’s easily accessible. Avoid damage by putting away any valuables that may be accidentally knocked over or broken.

And, be aware of what you’re asking for. For example, if you are having a home alarm system installed, tell the contractor where you want the main console. It’s easier for the home contractor to do his or her job when you express exactly what your expectations are.

If you know what kind of materials or appliances you want used, do your research and give that information to your contractor.

Another great tip is to ask questions and ultimately sign off on a written proposal before any work is started. Set up a pay schedule that assures you aren’t paying everything up front and never make the final payment until you receive a signed lien-waiver releasing you from any potential third-party claims.

In any economy, the hiring of a good home contractor can save you a lot of time and money. Knowing the right questions to ask and going the extra mile to prepare for their arrival will make screening a home repair contractor a worthwhile experience

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/keep-home-security-in-mind-when-hiring-a-contractor/feed/3How to Assess the Security Risks of an Apartment Buildinghttp://blog.allstate.com/how-to-assess-apartment-security/
http://blog.allstate.com/how-to-assess-apartment-security/#commentsMon, 06 Aug 2012 11:00:34 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=2682Some people feel property ownership is an integral part of the American Dream, while others are staunch advocates for the flexibility and convenience that comes along with renting. But one thing that apartment dwellers and home buyers have in common, though, is an interest in determining the security risks of a property before moving in. […]

]]>Some people feel property ownership is an integral part of the American Dream, while others are staunch advocates for the flexibility and convenience that comes along with renting.

But one thing that apartment dwellers and home buyers have in common, though, is an interest in determining the security risks of a property before moving in. Here’s what to consider before you sign on the dotted line:

Apartment Security Checklist

How secure is the parking area? Dedicated parking for the apartment complex is an advantage, but if an intruder can simply waltz in on foot, it’s not very secure parking. Underground parking may be better, but the same rule applies. And, if you have to walk through an underground garage before getting to an elevator or stairwell, you might ask whether there is a security guard to help ensure your safety.

How long of a walk is it from the parking area to the front door? And what are the potential threats along the way? It’s a good idea to check during the day and at night, as you might discover things that escaped your notice the first time. Look for darkened walkways or blind spots, dense shrubbery or courtyards that are accessible to the public. (Trespassers are curiously undeterred by “no trespassing” signs.)

How far into the building can you get without a key? If the lobby has a security door that can only be entered with a key or pass code, that’s a good thing. On the other hand, if it’s easy to catch the door as someone else leaves, a pass code is worthless. Also, find out if there is a guard on duty and if security cameras are installed (real ones, not empty boxes with blinking lights!). With security cameras becoming more affordable, there is no excuse for an apartment building not to have them—at the very minimum—in the lobby.

Is the apartment entry a steel door with a deadbolt? Wood doors with a quaint, old-fashioned chain and a button-lock on the knob are no match for a determined crook. Ask the landlord whether the locks have been changed and request to see a receipt for it, if possible.

Can window latches – particularly on first-floor apartments – be defeated using the ‘ole credit card trick? If there is a balcony, can it be accessed from the ground by shimmying up the railing or from another neighbor’s balcony? This is why sliding glass doors should have high quality locking mechanisms.

Look for fire alarms and sprinklers. New apartment buildings are required to have them, but if you’re considering an old building, make sure these items have been updated. A security alarm system is advantageous, but if there isn’t one, ask the landlord what the rules are for installing one for your own apartment.

Is the storage facility or garage secure? Or, is it accessible by the next tenant over? Also, carefully peruse amenities such as laundry areas, workout rooms and the swimming pool to ensure they don’t allow access to outsiders.

Who can see into your apartment? Look out the windows of the same unit you’re considering and determine who can see into your apartment (including other units within the complex) and who can monitor the property from outside. Remember that apartment security concerns include other residents, as well as outsiders. And it goes without saying that you should always secure your personal belongings.

It may sound strange, but when assessing your apartment, you should try putting yourself in the mindset of a criminal. Ask yourself, “If I was a (burglar, mugger, predator, peeping tom, etc.), how would I take action?”

It may feel silly initially, but you’ll quickly understand: The point of considering the security risks of an apartment is not to indulge in paranoia, but to sleep well at night, knowing you’ve already put your safety first.

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/how-to-assess-apartment-security/feed/156 Steps to Reducing Those Annoying False Security Alarms at Homehttp://blog.allstate.com/6-steps-to-reducing-those-annoying-false-alarms-at-home/
http://blog.allstate.com/6-steps-to-reducing-those-annoying-false-alarms-at-home/#commentsFri, 13 Jul 2012 11:00:50 +0000http://blog.allstate.com/?p=2541False alarms on a home security system can be just as bad as no alarm at all. Just ask city dwellers if they run outside in their slippers every time they hear a car alarm go off. Of course not! The frequency of these (often benign) events has desensitized most people to the sound. But, […]

]]>False alarms on a home security system can be just as bad as no alarm at all. Just ask city dwellers if they run outside in their slippers every time they hear a car alarm go off. Of course not! The frequency of these (often benign) events has desensitized most people to the sound.

But, with more and more people seeing the value of a home alarm system, false alarms can create real problems.

What if your home alarm system had frequent false alarms?

For one, it compromises local police by sending units out on wild goose chases, diverting them from actual emergencies. Some municipalities have begun issuing fines for frequent false alarms and are even denying service to a household or business with continued offenses.

There’s also the risk that, as with car alarms, frequent accidental alarms on a home security system can desensitize your family—leading you to ignore what might actually be a threat.

All too often, though, an accidental alarm is caused by something pretty simple.

Review the operating manual and take time to educate everyone with access to your home on proper system operation.

Be familiar with the steps to cancel an accidental alarm. In some instances, your alarm company will contact you to verify an alarm before summoning authorities.

Check your alarm battery backup, as low-battery voltage is the second most common cause of accidental alarms.

Regularly check alarm contact switches/magnets on doors and windows; if there is any damage or if they’re coming loose, you’ll need to call your alarm system provider for service adjustments.

Have the settings on any glass-break detectors verified, so that loud noises like thunder (or that obnoxious bass booming from a car on the street) will not trigger an alarm.

Aim any motion detectors away from air vents, sources of heat, fireplaces and windows.

Home alarm systems can improve your home’s security and provide a great feeling of confidence. But it can also be pretty embarrassing to have a swarm of police cars surround your house simply because you forgot to tell your spouse you changed the alarm code.

Rather than risk a fine or have a legitimate alarm ignored, you can take a few simple steps to prevent false alarms from ever being an inconvenience—for you or the authorities.

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/6-steps-to-reducing-those-annoying-false-alarms-at-home/feed/1A Home Safety Checklist for New Buyershttp://blog.allstate.com/the-7-item-safety-checklist-for-home-buyers/
http://blog.allstate.com/the-7-item-safety-checklist-for-home-buyers/#commentsTue, 05 Jun 2012 12:06:34 +0000http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2012/06/05/7-items-for-your-home-safety-checklistHome safety isn’t necessarily the first thing you think about when moving from one house into another. Sure, you had a home inspector check the property before the sale, but his inspection was likely not exhaustive—and not every defect will have been found. To help guide you in running your own evaluation, we’ve put together a […]

Home safety isn’t necessarily the first thing you think about when moving from one house into another. Sure, you had a home inspector check the property before the sale, but his inspection was likely not exhaustive—and not every defect will have been found. To help guide you in running your own evaluation, we’ve put together a home safety checklist for easing your mind of safety concerns when settling into your new home:

Door Locks

After taking title of your home, the very first thing you should do is change the door locks, and install secure deadbolts if there aren’t any. You don’t know how many people were given spare keys by the previous owners. New locks will deter any “drop-in” visitors.

Electrical

Circuit test every outlet to determine that they are indeed grounded and operating correctly; doing so will help prevent an instance of fire or electric shock. There are a variety of outlet testers to choose from. No kitchen forks!

Plumbing

Do all faucets have good water pressure and all drains clear? Check the pipes, wherever visible, for corrosion and leakage. Consider also having the water tested for contaminants—it can be money well spent.

Heating/Ventilation

Change the furnace and A/C filters, and make sure that ducts aren’t full of dust bunnies and registers are not blocked. Some very old homes have ducts wrapped in asbestos. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, asbestos removal may not be necessary; if it’s in good condition, it is frequently best left untouched.

Lead Paint

If the house you’ve purchased was built before 1978, there is a possibility that it may have lead-based paint, which can cause a range of health effects from behavioral problems and learning disabilities to seizures and even death. If you suspect that it might be lead paint, test it with an EPA-certified lead test kit and be sure to hire a lead-safe certified contractor to deal with the problem.

Chemicals and Flammables

As you unpack, quickly find a secure home for cleaning agents, solvents, paint and other hazards that children might come in contact with. Flammables are another concern—and it’s not just liquids like gasoline that you need to be worried about. After a move, you’ll have plenty of cardboard boxes sitting around, so keep them away from the stove and other ignition sources. Recycle them as soon as practical.

Fire Alarms

Test all smoke alarms (there should be at least one on each level of the house), and consider adding a carbon monoxide detector, if there isn’t one.

As a final closing step, get down on the floor and look around. What would your children or pets encounter that escapes your notice when standing? Sharp edged tabled, doors that swing into walkways, tripping hazards—there are plenty of things you might discover.

A little time spent on improving home safety at the beginning will make your home ownership a happier experience by keeping you healthier and (hopefully!) accident free. Best wishes in your new abode!

]]>http://blog.allstate.com/the-7-item-safety-checklist-for-home-buyers/feed/010 Tips to Improve Your Home’s Securityhttp://blog.allstate.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-homes-security/
http://blog.allstate.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-homes-security/#commentsFri, 04 Nov 2011 13:36:07 +0000http://community.allstate.com/community/allstate_blog/blog/2011/11/04/10-tips-for-home-securityProtecting your family starts with protecting your home. But with so many home security resources available out there, gathering home security tips can be a bit overwhelming. We’ve compiled the top ten home security tips to help get you started on home security and protection. All of the tips are easy to implement and inexpensive. […]

]]>Protecting your family starts with protecting your home. But with so many home security resources available out there, gathering home security tips can be a bit overwhelming. We’ve compiled the top ten home security tips to help get you started on home security and protection. All of the tips are easy to implement and inexpensive.

Change the locks – Remember to change all the locks when you move into a new house. You’ll never know who had access to the keys before you moved in. If you lose the keys to your house, you should also replace all the locks for the maximum home security.

Install an alarm system – Alarm systems are one of the best forms of home protection. Home alarm systems immediately inform emergency authorities and warn homeowners of any potential dangers. Seeing that a home has an alarm system often prevents an intruder from even attempting a burglary. Hearing an alarm go off usually sends a burglar running.

Conceal all wiring - Burglars often look for wiring around the exterior of a house and can cut it to disable the security system. Keep your home security wires hidden.

Give the appearance that your house is occupied – Professional burglars scour neighborhoods looking for homeowners who are away from their home for an extended period of time. Automatic timers are great ways to turn lights on and off while you’re away.

Don’t leave your key in the mailbox – This is a home security tip that everyone has heard, but many still ignore. One of the easiest ways to enter a home uninvited is by finding a key in the mailbox or under the doormat. Wrap your key in foil and place it in a secret spot that only your family knows about.

Light up the entrance to your home – A smart way to keep thieves away is to utilize lighting. Lighting with an infrared detector automatically turns on when someone is in a specific zone or area. No burglar wants to be in easy view while committing a crime.

Install deadbolt locks – All exterior doors should have at least 1 inch thick dead bolt locks. Although more expensive than spring latch locks, dead bolts are much stronger and provide significantly more protection. When installing deadbolts, make sure to leave a minimal amount of space between the door and its frame, as this provides an opportunity for an intruder to pry the door apart. Doors can be reinforced with plywood or a piece of sheet metal.

Use metal bars on sliding doors – Any sliding glass doors, patio doors, or sliding windows should have a metal bar that is placed along the bottom track of the door or window. The metal bar will prevent a burglar from forcing the door or window open.

Use interior door hinges – If your door has hinges on the outside of your house, an intruder can easily remove the hinge pin to gain entry. For optimal home security, remove the door and reset the hinges so that they are on the inside of the house.

Protect your windows – Burglars often gain entry into homes through windows. Protect these vulnerable areas with window locks and/or burglar-resistant glass. Installing many small panes of glass instead of one large pain of glass is a good option as well.

The text and photos for this blog post are courtesy of ADT Security Systems.